Here's an extract from an LA Times story about how the uncrackable, bulletproof anti-theft security system hasn't been invented yet:

"Every generation of antitheft technology is good for a while but eventually gets figured out by criminal networks, a cycle Hazelbaker has seen play out before.

"A new technology is good for two or three years before you see the theft statistics creep back up," he said. "By five or six years, if the manufacturer hasn't changed the technology, you see the numbers back to where they were before."

The evolution began with locking steering columns back in the 1970s. They were effective until thieves defeated them with brute force. Now, even teenage thieves know how to defeat a locking steering column.

Among the most sophisticated antitheft systems is the Bosch controller area network system, used on BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other brands, Folck said.

But thieves have increasingly found ways to defeat this system as well, using laptop computers that plug into the OBD II connector under the steering wheel to reprogram the vehicle's software. Who is smart enough to write pirate software to steal cars? Electrical engineers who are familiar with basic computer design, Folck said."

well, certainly SOME people likely professional thieves will find it possible to steal vehicles no matter how complex. but the question is whether they it is worth this effort for the petty criminal.

every modern MB i know of which was stolen, was due to the key being stolen. it's so much easier to break into the house and grab the keys than try to defeat the car systems. and of course, that ensures resale value for the thieves as well - otherwise you would need contacts in MB to get new keys done up for the stolen car. unless it's a really huge, international, operation.

An S 430 was stolen last week from a neighbor of my parents'. It was pretty nice - white with Lorinser body styling. At about 5am one morning, my mom heard a car horn honking fast (MB's alarm), then it stopped and she heard a car speed away.